I've been busking without a tip jar or sign. I don't ask for money i just play. When someone offers money i stop playing, put the money in my pocket. The police tell me im soliciting. I say no im not. They say yes you are. I say no im not....ect . can anyone give me some talking points? One cop said by accepting money im giving the impression that im soliciting and i would have to prove that i didn't in court.

I'm afraid Officer Friendly has it backwards. The burden of proof always resides with the Plaintiff, in this case the city. They would have to prove you actively solicited money. This would be impossible if it never happened. They would also need witnesses. Just accepting money is not proof of anything. To be sure of your stand, run it past a free Legal Aid organization in your area and see what they say.